First Sunday of Advent

Advent marks the start of the Christian year. It is the four weeks before Christmas, beginning this year on 3rd December.

The word ‘Advent’ comes from the Latin 'adventus', which means 'arrival' or 'coming'. This is a time during which we prepare for celebration of the birth of Jesus.

As part of this preparation, we light candles in an Advent wreath, one per week, as a reminder to us to spend time, in prayer, with Jesus before His coming on Christmas Day. The circle of the Advent wreath represents never-ending love for us and for all humanity.

Candles of the Advent Wreath

Week 1: The first purple candle is lit. This candle represents ‘Hope’.

Week 2:The second purple candle is lit. This candle represents ‘Peace’.

Week 3: The pink candle is lit. This candle represents ‘Joy’.

Week 4: The last purple candle is lit. This candle represents ‘Love’.

Christmas Eve/Day: The white candle, known as ‘The Christ Candle’ is lit. The Christ candle reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world.

A Prayer For Advent

Lord, you are a God of hope,

The One who brings light to dark places.

Help us, as we journey through Advent,

To take your light with us.

We ask this through your son, Emmanuel

 Amen